Pros:
- Very stylish design
- Onboard GPS, Bluetooth, and WiFi on all models, LTE on some.
- World-class Fitbit fitness tracking.
Cons:
- Mediocre Battery life
- You need two apps to fully take advantage of it
- Many Fitness goodies are locked behind a paywall
- The watch is expensive.
- Durability issues
Smartwatches have become an integral part of our modern lives, offering a blend of style, functionality, and connectivity. Google entered this arena with the Google Pixel Watch last year, a 41mm timepiece that promises to deliver an exceptional smartwatch experience.
In this in-depth review, we’ll explore the Google Pixel Watch’s design, performance, software, apps, fitness features, audio quality, and more , providing a detailed understanding of what it brings to the table.
Please note that Google unveiled this watch’s successor, the Google Pixel Watch 2 but it shares many aspects with this Gen 1 model from look and feel, to straps/bands and so on.
Related :
- Google Pixel Watch Unboxing, Setup, and First Impressions
- 5 Things to Do After Setting up Google Pixel Watch
- Why You Should Get a Fitness Tracker Instead of a Smartwatch
Design and Build (The Perfect Fit)
The size of a smartwatch can greatly influence the overall experience, and Google seems to have struck the right balance with the 41mm Google Pixel Watch, even though there have been calls for a bigger version.
It fits comfortably on the wrist, neither too bulky nor too small. The design is sleek, modern, and versatile , making it suitable for a variety of occasions, from formal gatherings to casual outings.
The watch’s build quality is solid, featuring a glass front (Gorilla Glass 5) and a stainless steel frame that exudes a sense of durability.
However, the whole face is covered by the said glass which makes it feel a little delicate and there have been reports of screens broken a little too easily. Here’s to hoping mine doesn’t meet the same fate.
Performance and Software (The Power of WearOS 4)
But looks are just one variable, how does the watch perform? The real power of any smartwatch lies in its software. Google Pixel Watch currently runs Android 13-based WearOS 4 , the latest iteration of Google’s smartwatch operating system.
Out of the box, it ran Android 11-based Wear OS 3.5. This is a significant leap forward, as it opens up a world of possibilities. Many of these are enabled by the Google Play Store . You have access to a vast library of apps, from fitness trackers to productivity tools, to customize your smartwatch experience.
Some of the apps you can run natively on the watch include:
- Spotify
- SoundCloud
- Google Fit
- Deezer
- Calm
- Google Keep
- Outlook
- Shazam
- Strava
- Todoist
These apps run fairly well with the expected constraints of a tiny 1.2-inch circular display . That said, Google Assistant is present and can perform almost any function you can think of.
Performance and Speed
Smartwatches rely on their internal hardware to provide a seamless user experience, and the Google Pixel Watch is no exception. A Samsung-made Exynos 9110 chipset with dual-core 1.15 GHz Cortex-A53 CPU and Mali-T720 GPUchip powers the watch, and this is where a few cracks in the experience start to show.
While the user interface is generally smooth, you might encounter occasional lags and slowdowns. It’s reasonable to assume that these hiccups are, in part, due to the aging Exynos chip.
Despite these intermittent delays, the Google Pixel Watch is equipped with 2GB of RAM and 32GB of internal storage , which goes a long way in ensuring that most Wear OS apps run without significant issues.
For the most part, the watch manages to provide a satisfactory user experience, but it might not be the snappiest performer in the smartwatch market, or even measure up to the speed of cheap wearables like the Xiaomi Smart Band 8 or Huawei Band 8 .
Related :
- Why You Should Get a Fitness Tracker Instead of a Smartwatch
- Huawei Band 8 vs. Xiaomi Smart Band 8: Which Should You Buy?
Apps and Integration (A World of Possibilities)
One of the standout features of the Google Pixel Watch is its robust ecosystem of apps. Google Fit, a popular fitness app, is a significant player in this arena. However, the integration with the watch is somewhat shallow, limited to the use of widgets known as complications in the Wear OS user interface. This is a minor letdown, considering the potential for deeper integration.
Spotify , on the other hand, shines as an app that allows you to download songs directly to the watch. This feature is a game-changer for music lovers, as it enables a standalone music experience when paired with wireless earbuds or bluetooth speakers. The ability to leave the house with just your watch and earbuds, while still enjoying your favorite tunes, is a testament to the watch’s convenience.
Google Assistant , a voice-activated digital assistant, works seamlessly on the Google Pixel Watch, even when connected to your phone via Bluetooth. Its responsiveness and accuracy are commendable, making it a valuable tool for various tasks, from setting reminders to answering queries. One of the remarkable features of the watch is its ability to connect to the internet via Wi-Fi when applicable. This opens up a world of possibilities, from checking emails to browsing the web, right from your wrist.
In addition to Google Fit and Spotify , the watch comes preloaded with essential Google apps like Keep, Calm, and Maps . These apps are tailored to provide a holistic experience, whether it’s jotting down notes, managing stress, or navigating to your destination. However, not all is perfect in the app department. WhatsApp , for instance, is available on the watch, but using its tiny keyboard can be a somewhat frustrating experience, especially for longer messages.
Fitness Features (A Fitness Enthusiast’s Paradise)
For fitness enthusiasts, the Google Pixel Watch offers an array of features to help you stay active and healthy. It comes with an integrated Fitbit app , a recognized leader in the fitness tracking industry. Fitbit has built a reputation for its comprehensive fitness tracking capabilities, and the Google Pixel Watch doesn’t disappoint in this regard.
We shall be delving into the fitness capabilities of the Google Pixel Watch in a subscequent post so stay tuned for that.
The Fitbit app on the watch provides you with real-time data on your steps, heart rate, sleep patterns, and more. It also offers guided workouts and customizable fitness goals to keep you motivated. However, it’s important to note that some of the more advanced features within the Fitbit ecosystem require a Fitbit Premium subscription.
While the watch includes a six-month trial , some users might hesitate to pay for these additional features and opt for alternative fitness tracking solutions.
Sleep Tracking
Sleep tracking is a pretty big part of the fitness trackers we have in the market today. And for good reason. Sleep has a lot of far-reaching benefits or consequences to our health and on the Google Pixel Watch, this is done via the Fitbit app.
I slept with the Huawei Band 8 which in my experience has been pretty accurate with sleep tracking. The Band 8 and the Pixel Watch fell within a few minutes difference of each other which is pretty impressive.
My qualm with Pixel Watch on this has got to be the use of multiple apps to deliver and present this data yet Huawei still manages to do this and much more via the Huawei Health app alone.
Pairing and Compatibility (Android Exclusivity)
To unlock the full potential of your Google Pixel Watch, you’ll need to pair it with the Google Pixel Watch app on your Android device. This app serves as the command center for your watch, allowing you to customize watch faces and complications, install apps, manage tiles, and manage various settings . It’s a seamless and intuitive process for Android users, enhancing the overall user experience.
However, it’s important to note that the Google Pixel Watch is not compatible with iPhones. This Android exclusivity is a significant limitation, as it narrows down the user base to Android device owners. For iOS users, this watch is not an option, and they must explore other smartwatch alternatives.
Audio Quality (A Tinny Speaker)
Well here’s an odd one that I feel should be outlined. First of all, I know that many don’t exactly need audio coming out of their watches. As long as the wearable can vibrate and light up the display, this should be enough.
But I have lived with the Oraimo Watch 3 Pro and its speaker can, in some instances, allow you to play music and or podcasts from the watch speaker aside from picking calls. Here’s where the Google Pixel Watch falls short in some regards. The watch is equipped with a speaker, but its usage is limited.
While the speaker can handle notifications and phone calls , it doesn’t support media playback for apps like Spotify . This limitation can be disappointing, especially if you were hoping for a more versatile audio experience.
Furthermore, the quality of the speaker is described as “ tinny ,” which means that it might not deliver the best audio experience for phone calls and alerts. While it’s functional for these purposes, it’s not the ideal choice for enjoying music or podcasts on your wrist.
Battery
However, the Google Pixel Watch is not without its flaws. The most glaring issue is its battery life, which can only be described as atrocious . Powering this contraption is a Li-Ion 294 mAh . The charging cradle is a mix of USB-C and a magnetic wireless charging cradle.
While this combination seems convenient, it lacks support for the Qi wireless charging standard. The magnetic connection itself feels weak , leading to frustrating disconnections.
On the bright side, it manages to charge fully from empty in approximately 90 minutes , which means you won’t be tethered to a charger for too long.
Other Known Issues
There have been a number of issues reported on the Google Pixel Watch so in case you’re thinking of taking the plunge and getting one, here are some that you need to be aware of. Note that I haven’t had all these issues, at least not yet (fingers crossed).
- The back glass has been reported to be popping off after a few months of use.
- The front glass seems to be breaking pretty easily so don’t drop it or knock the face.
- Battery life is bad and won’t last you all day, but it charges up fast so…
With all these issues, note that Google does not have a repair program so if you break it, you have to buy a new one. So much for minimizing e-waste and caring for the environment.
Conclusion (Balancing Strengths and Weaknesses)
In conclusion, the Google Pixel Watch presents a mixed bag of strengths and weaknesses. Its 41mm size and the introduction of WearOS 4, with access to the Google Play Store, make it a
I’m a tech enthusiast and digital explorer based in Kenya passionate about Android, Linux, and the world of custom ROMs. I love tinkering with devices to craft personalized, optimized experiences. When I’m not deep in code or tweaking gadgets, you’ll find me immersed in science fiction, philosophy, or writing about the ever-evolving tech landscape from an African perspective.
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Talkio Mobile , Uganda’s newest telecommunications service provider, is excited to announce a groundbreaking partnership with Banana Life Investments, a leading chain of mobile phone and retail shops. This strategic alliance aims to bring Talkio’s innovative telecom services closer to Ugandans.
This collaboration will leverage Banana Life Investments’ extensive retail network of 26 stores strategically located across Uganda in major malls, towns, and cities to provide customers with unparalleled convenience. Through this partnership, Talkio Mobile will offer its full suite of services, including SIM cards, airtime, and exclusive product offerings at any Banana Life Investment location.
This partnership is more than a business initiative—it’s a shared commitment to transforming lives. By integrating Talkio Mobile’s forward-thinking services & nationwide reach with Banana Life Investments’ retail footprint, the two brands are setting a new standard for customer convenience and inclusivity.
READ ALSO: 5 Things You Need to Know About Talkio Mobile: New Telecom Company in Uganda
“This partnership aligns perfectly with our mission of connecting Ugandans to innovative and transformative telecom solutions,” said Vianne Allan Ahura, CEO of Talkio Mobile. “By leveraging Banana Life Investments’ trusted presence and nationwide footprint, we are not only expanding our agent network but also bringing our services closer to the communities we serve. This collaboration ensures that our online customers can now enjoy a seamless offline experience right at their doorstep. Together, we are empowering Ugandans with the tools they need to stay connected, grow their businesses, and unlock new opportunities.”
Solomon Ssemuyaba, the assistant general manager at Banana Life Investments, echoed this sentiment: “We are proud to join hands with Talkio Mobile to deliver innovative, customer-centric solutions. This partnership represents our shared vision of fostering a connected future for Uganda. Together, we are redefining what convenience and accessibility mean for our customers.”
The partnership goes beyond retail distribution, introducing joint initiatives aimed at value addition and personalized service. Customers can expect seamless access to:
- SIM Card Sales : Available at all Banana Life Investments locations.
- Talkio phone number bookings : Book your preferred Talkio number at any Banana Life Investments location.
- Airtime Services : Recharge easily through in-store purchases.
- Customer Support : Friendly and knowledgeable staff trained to assist with Talkio Mobile products and services.
Additionally, the two companies plan to launch promotional campaigns and expand services to even more locations, ensuring no Ugandan is left behind in the digital transformation.
Solomon Obwot is a tech writer based in Kampala, Uganda, with extensive experience in the local tech startup ecosystem. He covers the latest news and analysis on consumer tech, writes in-depth smartphone reviews, and conducts insightful interviews with industry experts. Solomon is also a passionate podcaster, sharing his knowledge and engaging in discussions about Africa’s rapidly growing tech landscape. Send emails to [email protected]
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The Mobile World Congress (MWC) Barcelona , the world’s largest exhibition for the mobile industry, has just concluded. This annual event gathers leading technology brands to unveil groundbreaking mobile, AI, and digital solutions innovations. At MWC 2025, TECNO showcased a range of AI-driven products, reinforcing its commitment to cutting-edge technology.
The key launches included:
- CAMON 40 Series – AI-powered smartphones with One-Tap FlashSnap and advanced mobile imaging features.
- MEGABOOK S14 – The world’s lightest 14-inch OLED laptop, featuring AI-enhanced multitasking and Snapdragon® X Elite.
- MEGABOOK T14 Air & K15S – Lightweight ultrabooks with AI capabilities and extended battery life.
- TECNO AI Glasses Series – Smart eyewear integrating AI imaging, translation, and AR display.
Jan Stryjak, Associate Director at Counterpoint Research, shared, “In the past year, we have observed significant advancements in the field of AI. AI will continue to drive transformative changes in our daily lives. In this critical period for the economic development of emerging markets, TECNO’s AI technologies are unlocking potential for diverse needs.”
“The application of AI technologies is crucial and urgent in emerging markets. We’re committed to bridging the digital gap between emerging and mature markets,” said TECNO CMO, Laury Bai. “TECNO is taking a practical approach to make AI more accessible, ensuring users in emerging markets can access AI and cutting-edge technologies.”
Laury Bai, TECNO CMO
Driven by its commitment, TECNO has forged a robust partnership with MediaTek, establishing a joint AI laboratory dedicated to accelerating advancements in AI. At the event, James Chen, Vice President of Product and Technology Marketing at MediaTek, emphasized, “The synergistic R&D efforts between TECNO and MediaTek are set to democratize AI technology. Our collaboration powers a seamless, interconnected AI experience, bringing users a future of truly connected intelligence.”
James Chen, Vice President, Product and Technology Marketing at MediaTek
CAMON 40 Series Powered by AI One-Tap FlashSnap Revolutionizes Smartphone Snapshot Photography
TECNO’s Global Product Launch Officer, Olivier Mas, officially unveiled TECNO’s next-generation AI-driven products. Attendees at TECNO’s launch event witnessed the highly anticipated debut of TECNO’s new CAMON 40 Series, a device that embodies TECNO’s legacy of excellence in mobile imaging. Featuring One-Tap FlashSnap Mode and TECNO AI, the series sets a new benchmark in smartphone photography, delivering exceptional snapshot capabilities and AI-enhanced user experiences.
Olivier Mas, TECNO Global Product Launch Officer
The CAMON 40 Series exemplifies a commitment to innovation that transcends hardware and software, extending into strategic partnerships that deliver cutting-edge AI solutions to emerging markets. Matt Waldbusser, Managing Director of Global Solutions and Consumer AI at Google Cloud, remarked, “Our collaboration with TECNO on the CAMON 40 Series is a standout example. Leveraging Google Cloud’s capabilities, we’ve introduced groundbreaking features such as Ask Ella, AI Image Generator, AI Writing, and AI Translate. I am particularly impressed by the industry-leading and competitive edge of some of these innovations. For instance, TECNO’s AI supports text translation in 136 languages, voice translation in 44 languages, and photo translation in 51 languages. We are excited to further strengthen our partnership with TECNO, unlocking limitless potential to bring advanced yet practical AI capabilities to emerging markets in a convenient and secure manner.”
Matt Waldbusser, Managing Director of Global Solutions and Consumer AI at Google Cloud
The CAMON 40 Series’ innovative One-Tap FlashSnap leverages AI to enhance imaging capabilities, revolutionizing mobile photography. AI optimizes camera startup and continuous shooting for instant captures, while AI-powered multi-frame processing intelligently reduces noise and enhances details, delivering sharper, more refined images. Additionally, the BestMoment algorithm analyzes motion patterns, automatically selecting the optimal frames for precise, high-quality shots in dynamic scenarios, ensuring users an unparalleled mobile imaging experience.
TECNO CAMON 40 Demonstrates the Cutting-Edge FlashSnap Capability
To delve deeper into the imaging prowess of the CAMON 40 Series, TECNO invited Frédéric Guichard, CEO of DXOMARK, to share the image performance of CAMON 40 Pro. Frédéric highlighted, “The CAMON 40 Pro 5G has demonstrated exceptional imaging and performance capabilities in our rigorous evaluations. We’ve been particularly impressed with photo performance being the best for devices under 600$, and the 1st eligible device to our Smart Choice Label.”
Onsite photo of Frédéric Guichard, CEO of DXOMARK
Beyond its advanced rapid-capture functionality, the integration of TECNO AI further enhances the device’s capabilities. Intelligent imaging, a 360° AI Call Assistant, and productivity tools elevate creativity and efficiency. Powered by MediaTek’s latest chipsets, the series ensures smooth performance, fast processing, and extended battery life. With a sleek, durable, and water-resistant design, it seamlessly blends style with practicality for modern users.
MEGABOOK S14, the World’s Lightest 14-inch OLED Laptop, Inspires Creators and Game Lovers
The MEGABOOK S14 is TECNO’s first OLED laptop and the industry’s lightest 14-inch OLED laptop, featuring a 2.8K OLED display and incredibly weighing only 899g (31.7oz). The laptop is equipped with the outstanding power of the Snapdragon® X Elite compute platform, the flagship chipset for AI PCs from Qualcomm Technologies, and integrates TECNO’s world’s first self-developed edge-side large-scale AI model, to achieve AI-enhanced multitasking.
World’s Lightest 14-inch Laptop MEGABOOK S14
Specifically designed for next-gen AI productivity, TECNO AI enhances the Ella AI Assistant, AI-powered PPT generation, AI-driven image search, smart albums, and offline meeting transcription with multilingual support. The External Graphics Dock, equipped with a powerful NVIDIA graphic card, delivers scalable, high-performance capabilities for design, gaming, and content creation. The laptop’s 2.8K OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate ensures exceptional visuals, while DTS:X Ultra dual 2W speakers, Wi-Fi 6E, fingerprint login, and PC Manager optimize connectivity and user experience.
TECNO’s strategic partnership with Qualcomm Technologies was a highlight of the TECNO AI Ecosystem Product Launch event, demonstrating a shared vision for the future of AI PCs. Kedar Kondap, SVP & GM of Compute and Gaming at Qualcomm, took the stage to discuss the integration of Qualcomm’s cutting-edge PC chipset into the new MEGABOOK S14 laptop, underscoring TECNO’s commitment to delivering high-performance computing solutions.
Kedar Kondap, SVP & GM of Compute and Gaming at Qualcomm
In addition, TECNO also introduced several standout new products. The featherlight 999g (35.2oz) ultrabook MEGABOOK T14 Air, features high-speed storage and LPDDR5 memory, while the ultra-thin, all-metal MEGABOOK K15S, equipped with a powerful 70Wh battery and supported by a 65W PD GaN charger, offers a smarter and more long-lasting user experience. Both devices are empowered by TECNO AI with advanced AI capabilities such as AI Album and AI Voice Assistant, making them perfect companions for all aspects of life.
The Next Game-Changing Tech Innovation: See the World with the TECNO AI Glasses Series
TECNO’s new AI Glasses Series also took center stage with the introduction of TECNO AI Glasses Pro and TECNO AI Glasses, reimagining eyewear with cutting-edge imaging, intelligent interactions, and a sleek aesthetic. The TECNO AI Glasses feature an aviator design, while the Pro model showcases a browline style, both embodying timeless elegance and modern fashion.
TECNO AI Glasses Redefine the Way People See the Future
Equipped with a 50MP high-definition camera, the series integrates an OV50D sensor, a 100° ultra-wide-angle custom lens, and an AI ISP imaging chip, forming a mobile-grade imaging system. This system lets users capture stunning, high-resolution photos with advanced AI noise reduction and HDR capabilities. With real-time translation supporting over 100 languages, TECNO AI’s Ella empowers accurate translation even for less common languages, as well as voice control, AI-powered object recognition, and intelligent information summaries for ultimate convenience.
Additionally, the AI Glasses Pro features a MicroLED display with 7th-gen resin waveguide technology, offering a 30° field of view, over 1,500 nits of brightness AR display, and a lightweight, ultra-thin design. The AR display allows users to effortlessly enjoy features like translation display, navigation, information prompts, and teleprompting.
Equipped with a 250mAh battery, these glasses offer over 11 hours of music playback and 8 hours of mixed use with just 30 minutes of charging. An advanced ultra-linear speaker, bass enhancement, and spatial sound deliver an immersive audio experience, while Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.4 ensure seamless connectivity.
With these innovative launches, TECNO is setting new standards in mobile imaging and AI-enhanced technology, shaping a more connected and empowered future for consumers in emerging markets. Once again, TECNO has showcased its cutting-edge innovation on the global stage at MWC. With the brand essence of “Stop at Nothing”, TECNO’s relentless pursuit of innovation is making AI-powered technology more accessible, allowing consumers to experience the future ahead of time.
Solomon Obwot is a tech writer based in Kampala, Uganda, with extensive experience in the local tech startup ecosystem. He covers the latest news and analysis on consumer tech, writes in-depth smartphone reviews, and conducts insightful interviews with industry experts. Solomon is also a passionate podcaster, sharing his knowledge and engaging in discussions about Africa’s rapidly growing tech landscape. Send emails to [email protected]
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